The Leicester based uncle of a man who campaigners say has been kidnapped and tortured by police in India has spoken of his family’s concern.

Jagtar Singh Johal, from Dumbarton, Scotland, was detained in Jalandhar in the state of Punjab on November 4.

The Sikh Federation UK said no official charges have yet appeared, but local media reported Mr Johal's arrest was linked to the killing of Hindu leaders in Punjab.

Mr Johal, who got married in India in October, has told lawyers he has been tortured with ''body separation techniques and electrocution''.

Gobinder Singh, who runs the Melton Hotel in Melton Road, Belgrave, said he fears for the life of his nephew.

He said: “This is a terrible situation for our family to be in.

“We are all worried sick about what might be happening to Jagtar.

“We would call on the government to do all in its power to get him released."

As concerns are raised with the Foreign Office, the leader of Glasgow Gurdwara has written to Scotland's First Minister in a bid for support.

Jagtar Singh Johal

Charandeep Singh wrote: "We are concerned that the authorities may be using methods of torture against Jagtar, and this is highly likely given the history of the Punjab police and by the fact that no family member, legal representative or British Government representative has been able to meet Jagtar and vouch for his location or his physical and mental wellbeing.

"I would strongly welcome your intervention in this case and support Jagtar Singh Johal and the wider Scottish Sikh community, as we campaign to secure Jagtar's release and safe return to Scotland."

"Scottish Government officials have contacted the Foreign Commonwealth Office about this case - they have assured us they are aware of the situation and are currently attempting to gain access to Mr Johal.

"The First Minister has asked to be kept informed of any further developments."

The Foreign Office (FCO) said on Tuesday that it takes allegations of torture ''very seriously'' and is taking action to check on Mr Johal's welfare.

A spokesman said: ''When considering how to act, we will avoid any action that might put the individual in question or any other person that may be affected at risk.''

The Sikh Federation said the 30-year-old should be enjoying married life, but ''finds himself the subject of some sort of conspiracy hatched by the Punjab police and leading politicians''.